Smits, whose men are now contemplating having to extend their unpaid leave to represent their country here, said: "We deserve to play in the Friends Provident Trophy - I don't know any cricketing reasons why we are not in that competition.

"This result speaks for itself, doesn't it? It's a huge victory. Without doubt, the biggest day in Dutch cricket history, and now we are looking to qualify for the Super Eights and maybe the semi-finals.

"We will all have to get more time away from work - it will cost us a lot of money - but I would love to take some days off."

England failed to defend 162 for five in wet conditions as Tom de Grooth smashed an enterprising 49 and Peter Borren hit 30; the Dutch also crucially won the six count in the contest 4-0.

"We thought we had enough runs on the board but they came out and played with plenty of freedom and belief," reflected Collingwood. "The way they knocked the runs off was mightily impressive. We were beaten by the better side. Full credit to them."